Snowy Day

It's a snowy day here in the mid-hudson valley. We have a "clipper" snow storm in the region with approximately 6 inches of accumulation. The falling snow makes for a very pretty landscape. The view of the Berkshires are "socked in" so we're not able to see the foothills. Still, it's nice to see the snow falling in this tranquil, country setting.

I took a couple of photos this morning for friends of mine who live in warmer areas.

Our chickens are staying in their coop today. Guess the snow is just too much for them. In the photo, you can see one of the chickens at the doorway having a peak. I'm not sure if it's Henry, my rooster looking out although I wouldn't doubt it. We did hear him crowing it up first thing this morning when the snow was falling lightly.

Guess it's much safer indoors until the sky stops falling down! ;)




www.OffTheCuffArt.com
http://BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
www.SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Art-O-Mat Sneak Preview

I'm getting my next batch of art blocks ready for Artist in Cellophane. I do not know exactly which destination my artwork will vend in NYC. However, here's a sneak preview of my next shipment:


Birches in 3 blocks - are miniature acrylic paintings on canvas:



Each individual block is signed by me and look great alone but having all three will make the absolute best display. ;)




www.OffTheCuffArt.com
http://BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
www.SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Farm Fresh Eggs

Our chickens started to lay their first eggs. The Leghorns are the first to lay eggs. Their eggs are white as shown in the image on the right above. One of our Araucana's got jealous and decided to out do her Leghorn sister by laying the extra large green egg as shown above.

I took the picture to show comparison between the store bought brown egg on the left with my farm fresh eggs. Soon, we'll have brown eggs from our Wynadotte breed. The color of the egg is determined by the skin color as seen on the feet of the chickens. Essentially, the taste is the same as well as the nutrition level. Contrary to some belief that brown eggs are superior to white. A hen egg by any other color is still a hen egg. :)

My family got to enjoy the first eggs at this mornings breakfast. And, they were so yummy. The yolk from our chickens' eggs are darker, a bit more orange. This is due in part to their diet being supplemented with left over bread crumbs and vegetables, especially green veggies. Our chickens love the table treats and we get a nutritional boosts from the supplement as well.

www.OffTheCuffArt.com
http://BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
www.SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Artists in Cellophane

I create artwork blocks for Artists in Cellophane Currently, my artblocks can be purchased at the Whitney Museum and the NYC Community Arts.

I create original art exclusively for Art-O-Mat and high quality limited edition prints on blocks the size of a cigarette pack. I received my first check from the sales the other day. It's such a great feeling to know there are people out there who will enjoy these miniature art pieces.

Currently, I'm working on new art block submissions for Art-O-Mat. Check back to see some of my latest work. :)


www.OffTheCuffArt.com
http://BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
www.SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Holiday Shopping Sale

SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com
You are as unique as our designs

Just in time for holiday shopping. Save 20% off on earrings, bracelets and necklaces. Plus, spend more than $75.00 and receive free, 1st class shipping. Hurry! This is a limited time offer at SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com.
All orders will be beautifully wrapped suitable and ready for holiday gift giving.

See my original fine art and archival prints at very reasonable prices at my fine art site: Off The Cuff Art
And, now you can purchase my art work on great gifts such as mugs, tee shirts, magnets and more at Zazzle


www.OffTheCuffArt.com
http://BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
www.SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Chicken Love - Oil Painting

Chicken Love is an oil painting of two of my chickens. This oil painting is on 5 x 7 canvas. It is hand painted and signed by me, artist, Barbara Giordano. It's Henry, my rooster with one of his 13 girlfriends. These chickens are still very young as their combs and wattles are just coming in.

You can purchase a high qualtiy, archival print directly from my website, Off The Cuff Art. It's printed on my Epson R1900 printer with Ultra Chrome pigment, archival ink. I use only high qualtiy, professional, acid free, heavy weight (67lb) photo paper with a luster finish. It is water and fade resistant that will last more than a lifetime with proper care.

If you're a collector of original artwork, please email me for more information.

www.OffTheCuffArt.com
http://BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
www.SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Journey - Oil on Canvas

Journey

I painted this one for my son. He was born in the year of the horse. My young son shares some of the characteristics of those born under this Chinese astrological sign: independent, impulsive, warm and attractive. He also has some special needs which is where some of his impulsive tendencies lie. I see my son as carefree, strong and determined and from those thoughts is this art piece.

OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Just Another Chicken Kind Of Day

The girls doing the chicken strut

As it turns out, the she is a he. I name him Henrietta as a chick and of course, he started to crow and get those beautiful tail feathers.

Henrietta aka Henry with one of his girlfriends.

Ah, rooster heaven.

It's just me and my girls. See how handsome I am.

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BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Barack Obama Is My President

New Direction - Acrylic on Canvas

Last night, I watched and I wept as history was being made in the United States with the election of the first, African American President, Barack Obama. After feeling so discouraged with a sense of hopelessness

over the direction our country was heading these past 8 years, I find a renewed faith and hope. It is such a great day for America and a great day for the African American community.

After a very long time, I can say with a full heart, I'm so proud of being an American. I'm so proud of the people who rose up into one voice to make this change a reality. I feel hope for my young son who is a black American. I see his future as brighter. I feel hope for all people in this great country that we are finally moving in the direction to not judge an indiviual based on their race but rather on their character and merit.

OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

New Miniature Oil Paintings

I've created two new miniature oil paintings. One is an interpretation from my memory of a pet cat I had named, Lady. The other is an abstract of a country road in the fall near my home. I painted the abstract for a friend. Both paintings are on canvas and signed by me, artist, Barbara Giordano

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BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Viewing the Berkshires

I always get a little laugh when I tell people I'm from New York, they think "the city" automatically. Although it's a reasonable assumption, New York is such a beautiful state and there's so much more than the great "Big Apple".

I feel blessed because I'm from the Bronx originally and grew up with the cultural benefits of living near New York City. Growing up in the Bronx held so many diverse avenues for me to become enriched culturally. Although, I'm a "city girl", on the inside, I'm a country girl at heart.

Growing up, I longed for the country life of rolling hills and green fields with cows, horses and sheep grazing. I live near the neighboring states of Connecticut and Massachusetts. We are about 90 miles north of the city and our home has a great view of the Berkshire foothills. There are many horse farms nearby and many of our neighbors raise cows, sheep and other farm animals. Shortly after moving here, we started our own flock of 14 laying hens but that's a side story.

Yesterday, while waiting for the school bus with my young son, I took a couple of photos of the Berkshire foothills as seen from the bottom of my driveway. Nearby, a neighbor has sheep in the field so I took a shot of that as well. In the Berkshires photos, you can see some low hanging clouds and a couple of trees with beautiful shades of orange. Soon the foothills will be a splash of fall colors.

I hope to gather more images as the trees turn color. When I do, I'll be sure to post them to this blog.

OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Rosebud Original Oil on Canvas

We started to raise chickens this year and we got them as day old chicks. If you've never had the pleasure of being around chickens, I must tell you, they are so sweet and amusing to watch. I have a flock of 14 hens and probably got a little carried away in having so many to start out.

The combs are just starting to come out and I'm not sure yet what the shape of the comb will be once fully grown.

I finally got motivated to take my hand to working with oil paints for the first time. Above is a chicken portrait I titled "rosebud" because of the shape of the comb.

I'm now hooked on oil paints. I can see why many artists enjoy working with the medium. I don't know why I was so hesitant but I'm glad I finally took the leap.

It's a 12x16 oil painting on canvas.







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Art and Political Views

I received an email the other day from a person who didn't want to follow my blog because of some of my political posts. They're concerned that because they don't necessarily agree with some of my views, if others would see they subscribe, it automatically "means" they agree with my position.

I think this is unfortunate as I see the value of looking at various view points if not for anything else, to get a different perspective. As an artist, whether I write about political concerns or not, some of my art reflect my thoughts. I don't have to create art related to political subjects but as an artist, I feel compelled to do so. Art is an avenue to express societal and political concerns. And, thank goodness we continue to have this freedom of expression.

My thoughts on politics, etc., is only one part of who I am as a person. There are other facets in my interests. I hope that if you like some of the things you see on this blog, it compels you to want to see more and not rule out only one aspect of it for choosing not to subscribe.

Thank you for visiting here today.

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BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Custom Website Built For You

Do you want a professional looking website but don't have the time or resources to build one. My webmaster will build one for you in the color scheme of your choice. A website like the one shown above can cost well above $500.00 to build.

Basic ZenCart Shopping Cart Web Design ONLY $300.00

This package includes basic installation and design of a ZenCart Shopping cart.
Package will include:

• Installation and configuration of the latest version of ZenCart Basic design of header graphic and category graphic to meet your color scheme (can also include a background image if you have one you want put on the site)
• Set up of all side boxes that come with ZenCart Set up of categories
• Set up of 1-3 products per category to give you an example of how to set the rest of the items up
• Set up of up to 5 additional CUSTOM pages within Zen Cart Set up of shipping fees, payment methods, sales tax zones and other pertinent items to get your site up and running.

Once the site is designed, it will be your responsibility to enter all other products. You will receive easy to understand instructions on how to add products and more. You also receive support via email and phone if you run into problems or need a question answered!

OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

New Direction - ACEO - Archival Print

Limited edition archival quality print direct from the artist, Barbara Giordano

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BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Politics - Palin Has Some Explaining To Do

Is it sexist to expect a woman being accused of a whole lot of stuff to make a case of truth for herself? I'm a woman and I don't think so!

Sarah Palin came out of nowhere to become McCain's Vice Presidential choice. Palin didn't exist to many of us and she comes with what appears to be a huge amount of baggage in tow. Palin brings to the ticket views that are to the extreme right, laced with racism and fascism. I think it's important to consider the potential implications of this particular VP nominee. And, we know if McCain is elected and croaks in office, Palin will take over. Do we really want to take a gamble on that?

Here is what I think... If Palin is so competent and has integrity as so claimed by the Republicans, why is she not coming forward to meet with the press? She has nothing to hide - right? It shouldn't be an issue, right?. In fact, Palin, in my estimation, should welcome the opportunity to come forward to clear up her "good" name.

It is not sexist to expect a Vice Presidential candidate to clear up rumor and put to rest any uncertainties about her integrity. Because I will tell you "friends", there appears to be a trail of trash in Palin's wake.

Palin claims baby, Trig is her son not daughter, Bristol's child. How is it possible for any woman to wait and travel for hours after the amniotic fluid breaks - a sure indication the baby is well on it's way to entering the world! Why haven't we seen a picture of the proud Palin taken shortly after the delivery of "her" baby? You know the one - the one taken in the hospital room after the baby is brought to the waiting arms of every mother. The sad part about all of this is that it's being questioned and her story questionable. And, why are people suspicious in the first place? Is it because Bristol is actually working on baby number two? Or, is it because Palin can't practice what she preaches regarding abstinence in her own home? Or, is it because she's a calculating liar that will use whatever means necessary to further her political ambition even if it's at the cost of her own children's welfare?

One of the most disgusting things I've read about Palin recently is that she was overheard in a local Alaskan diner referring to Barak Obama as a "Sambo" and Hillary Clinton as a "bitch". There is no room left in American society to allow for this type of mentality to prevail in Washington.

Now here's another thing to consider. If Palin doesn't meet with Joe Biden in an expected Vice Presidential debate due to some lame excuse from the Republicans, here is what I'm going to do. I'm going to write to all of my representatives (for whatever its worth) and claim foul and cover up. We, the people, have a right to see and understand exactly what Sarah Palin will bring to the table in Washington by answering challenging and straight forward questions. As well as how well she holds up under scrutiny. And, not that it would change my mind about voting for McCain because it wouldn't. It's a matter of principle to putting their money where their mouths are.


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BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Politics - McCain/Palin - I do not think so

OMG! You've got to be kidding me. As if I needed another reason not to vote for McCain - if only he had a brain! His VP choice of Sarah Palin is insulting to say the least.

McCain is pandering to women thinking Palin will be a viable female substitute for Hillary Clinton. Palin's views if allowed to come to any type of fruition would throw women back into the stone age being dragged by their hair. And, I'm not one to bash any one's beliefs but common on folks - do you think man was really walking the earth with the dinosaurs! It's frigging scary thinking if you ask me - but who' asking me, right!?

And, if you didn't know already, take a closer look at Palin:

Who is this Sarah Palin anyway?

Here's some basic background:

• She was elected Alaska's governor a little over a year and a half ago. Her previous office was mayor of Wasilla, a small town outside Anchorage. She has no foreign policy experience.

• Palin is strongly anti-choice, opposing abortion even in the case of rape or incest.

• She supported right-wing extremist Pat Buchanan for president in 2000.• Palin thinks creationism should be taught in public schools.• She's doesn't think humans are the cause of climate change.

• She's solidly in line with John McCain's "Big Oil first" energy policy. She's pushed hard for more oil drilling and says renewables won't be ready for years. She also sued the Bush administration for listing polar bears as an endangered species—she was worried it would interfere with more oil drilling in Alaska.

• How closely did John McCain vet this choice? He met Sarah Palin once at a meeting. They spoke a second time, last Sunday, when he called her about being vice-president. Then he offered her the position.

Shh, the baby might actually be (who would imagine) her oldest daughter’s… It’s starting to reek with stench around here – better pull up my hip boots.

Who's Baby Is It? Your guess is as good as mine and everything comes out in the wash.

OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Artists Network

One of the things I enjoy doing is collaborating with photo artists. I've had the good fortune to create artwork as a direct result of using photos with permission as reference. I don't always have the time to capture photos for my hand painted fine artwork. And, I need to continue to develop my artwork by the simple act of "doing". Following is a sample of these recent artwork projects:

Buster

Waiting

Jack and Sophia Raccoon

I would love more opportunities to work on painting children and animals. In return, I offer an archival print of my finished work in exchange for the use of the photo. Additionally, I blog about the collaborative effort giving credit back to the photo artist. All photographers with the mentioned subjects in their portfolio who are interested in cross promotion are welcome to comment on this blog for possible consideration.






OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Artwork available directly from the artist, Barbara Giordano

Otherwise known as Minister Buster. This lovely kitty is an acrylic painting of my brother's cat. Apparently, he provides soothing ministry to all that come in contact with him.A high quality, archival 5 x 7 inch print from my original painting.

The art is printed directly from my Epson R1900 pigment ink printer on Epson professional ultra premium photo paper, 67lb (250g/m) with a luster finish. This high quality paper resists smudging, water and fading with true color quality. It is ready for matting and framing. On the back of the print is my signature, title, medium and date.

OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Waiting - Original 12 x 16 Acrylic Painting

My newest acrylic painting "Waiting", 12 x 16 painting on canvas. It's a piece that speaks to me about adopting from China. The artwork is available for sale at my website: Off The Cuff Art Visit my website to see more images of the artwork.

The inspiration behind the artwork comes from a photo taken by photographer, Christine Szeto. Christine's work can be see on her blog: http://christineszetophoto.blogspot.com/

Christine allowed me to use her baby in a basket photo as reference for my artwork. Thanks, Christine!

OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Featured Street Team: Etsybloggers

The Etsybloggers team is featured in the Storque on Etsy. Go to the link to read the article and see all the great arts and crafts available for sale by a community of very talented people:

In the Spotlight - Featured team: Etsybloggers

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BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
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Sunfluer.Etsy.com

What Shoes I Wear - Interview

I'm a shop owner on Etsy, a great online market place for handmade arts and crafts. Etsy offers a mixed online shopping community of very talented artists and crafters. Through my involvement on Etsy, I've joined a number of teams. The Etsy teams are made up of people who come together with their shared interest in their particular art and/or craft. One of the many benefits of being on an Etsy team is the supportive environment and camaraderie. One team, in particular is called VAST - Visual Artists Street Team.

On VAST, I met Janyce of Sojourn Quilts, who interviewed me about my artwork. The interview is on her blog, What Shoes I Wear. I'm very excited to have my artwork and jewelry designs highlighted on Janyce's blog. I hope you'll stop by to read the interview and view Janyce's work as well.


OffTheCuffArt.com
BarbaraGiordanoArt.Etsy.com
SunfluersJewelryDesigns.com

Moonlight Majesty - Original 9 x 12 inch Acrylic Painting

This painting is inspired from the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony of the peace dancers. It's available for sale at my Etsy shop: Barbara Giordano Art

Raising Chickens for Fun and Art

Raising chickens is so fun watching them grow, hearing their little chickie tweeting sounds become clucking hens.

This little chick is about a week old.

We live on 5 acres in the countryside. It's so beautiful here. There is much wildlife and I've seen quite a few: deer, rabbits, gophers, wild turkeys, red tail hawks, foxes, raccoons, skunks, frogs, and lizards. The black bear live in the area and have been spotted by neighbors as well as coyotes. Some of the mentioned are predators to my sweet chickens but we've taken care to house them safely.

We enclosed the outdoor run so the hens get outside safely from predators. My dogs wanted in on the photo op.

"Good Morning, Henrietta" was inspired by my chickens. Acrylic on canvas.

On The Boardwalk - 9 x 12 Acrylic on Canvas Painting

Ok, ok these are my feet in my favorite red sandals. Anyone who knows me well enough, know I love red shoes. Well, a girl needs a little vise or two, don't you think so? :)

The inspiration behind this is from a ACEO Bounty challenge on Etsy called "Summer Time and the Liv'in is Easy". I thought what the heck and took a photo of my puppies as reference for this painting.

The ACEO - Art Card Edition Original, 2.5 x 3.5 inches, archival quality print is available for sale at my Etsy shop. I print the artwork on my Epson R1900 pigment ink print on professional photo paper with a luster finish. The print is guaranteed to be fade and water resistant and it looks great with true color quality.

I sign the back of the artwork with the title, date and medium.

Blue Jay - 8x10 Acrylic Painting

Blue Jay, 8 x 10 inch acrylic on canvas board is my newest painting from my feathered friends series.

Tulips Talking

I've recently joined the Etsy Bloggers team and one of the things we do is promote each other's work through our individual blogs. It's a great way to help promote Etsy shop owners at the same time getting inspiration for our blogs.

I'm promoting the work of Etsy shop: Tulips Treasure Box There you will find a luscious assortment of beadwoven jewelry, handmade tote bags and clothing.

Bead weaving is a true art form and Tulips Treasure Box offers these great treasures at very reasonable prices.

Robin - 8x10 Acrylic Painting

Here's a cropped image from my Robin acrylic painting. To see the full image of the painting, please visit my website: OffTheCuffArt.com It's also available as shown as an ACEO collectible art card archival print.

Article in Etsy Shop Directory

I recently wrote an article for the Etsy Directory regarding the shared effort between my recent painting "Bandit Love" and the photo contributor, Amanda Smith. Here is the link for the article: http://weloveetsy.com/shops/article.php?id=110 Scroll down in the blog to view the photo and my painting.

If you have a favorite Etsy shop you want to write about, you can submit the artcle to the Etsy Directory for consideration. It's another way to promote your work while helping out another Etsy shop owner. It's a karma key.

:)Barbara

Displaying Miniature Artwork

ACEO's - Art Card Edition Original, miniature artwork measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches are an affordable way to collect artwork from your favorite artist. They can be matted, framed as any art piece and beautifully displayed in just about any space.

Here are some of the art cards I've collected including my own work as it's displayed in my home.

I offer original works of miniature art as well as high quality archival prints for sale at my website and Etsy shop. All at very reasonable prices.

Not So Feel Good Art...

I can't always do "feel good" art. And, this piece reflects a little bit of what's on my mind. I have a name for it but I think I'll let the viewer decide. So for now, it'll be untitled.

The art is done with ink, markers and digitally enhanced.

Nobody Loves Hillary?

A while back I did this artwork, Hillary as Liberty, graphite and colored pencils on 9 x 12 inch drawing paper. I thought all things considered, I did a relatively decent job in portraying Hillary in a positive light.

Only recently, I decided to play around with the artwork using a digital application. I cleaned it up a bit with digital enhancement. The image is sharp and "clean".

It's now offered at my Etsy shop as a PIF - Pay It Forward. Basically, PIF is a "karma key" as I like to call it. I list the artwork for the meager listing fee of .20 plus the cost for shipping/handling of only 99 cents. I'm barely getting by as I'll need to compensate a little bit for the S/H. In total, I'm not making any profit which is what a PIF is anyway. In return for the PIF an Etsy shop owner who receives this great artwork will list a PIF in their shop. Or, if you're not a shop owner, the recipient does some nice thing like buying a cup of coffee for the person in line behind them.

I'm tapping my chin because it seems no one loves Hillary!? How can that be when there were/are so many people who have/do support her. It blows my mind because I'm giving this great artwork away and so far no takers.

By the way, Hillary as Liberty is an ACEO - Art Card Edition Original. That's a 2.5 x 3.5 inch format. The print is archival quality which basically means it's printed on professional quality (67lbs) paper which has a luster finish. The end result is an excellent print that will resist fading and water for many years to come.

Is there no one out there who values this great art print? It might actually be worth real money one day because who knows where Hillary's political career will take her. That has yet to be determined. Aside from that possibility, it's a great collector's item.

And, the lucky person who decides to come forward to show Hillary some love - please come back to this blog and tell us about the free Hillary art card you received.

The Team for Interior Designers: Add Your Etsy Mini#links

The Team for Interior Designers: Add Your Etsy Mini#links

Raccoons - Jack & Sophia

This is Jack and Sophia Raccoon. The photo is courtesy of Amanda Smith, Etsy shop owner. Amanda does wild baby animal rescue. I saw this great photo in her shop today. I asked Amanda permission to use the photo as reference for a painting as I'm always looking for challenges. Below is my interpretation of the these cute critters.

My vision for these adorable raccoons in this painting is for their liberation. I named the piece "Bandit Love". It's 9 x 12 acrylic on canvas.

Art-O-Mat Artwork in a vending machine - how cool is that!

I'm very pleased to announce my original artwork is now available for sale from ArtOMat.org , kurplunking at it's best!

These original works of miniature art on cigarette size wood blocks are vending at various locations in re-cycled cigarette machines.

You can find my name, Barbara Giordano, on the list at ArtOMat. For more information about the artwork and finding a vending machine near you, visit the artomat website for more information.

I'm so excited to be part of this unique opportunity.

Happy vending! :)

What is the value of an ACEO?

ACEO - art card edition and original are miniature works of art no more than the size of a baseball trading card. It measures 2.5 x 3.5 inches. This is considered the standard size to qualify for an ACEO.

These little works of art are highly collectible. It's a relatively inexpensive way to collect artworks from favorite artists. If you have a group of friends who enjoy collecting these great pieces of art, they are fun to trade as well.

The more expensive ACEO's are the coveted originals. They cost more because of their individual value as the original work. It's a greater challenge for the artist to create original art on a small platform. All the more reason for the greater value.

Many artists enjoy creating prints in ACEO form from their original artworks. These prints are highly prized as well. It's an affordable way for the ACEO collector to gather art from their favorite artists. I especially enjoy offering prints of my work in ACEO form at very reasonable prices.

When I reproduce my artwork in the ACEO size, I use my Jasc software to help out. I can get the right pixelation for excellent printing results. My work is digitally resized and printed on my Epson R1900 pigment ink printer.

The value of my ACEO is fully worth the value of the paper it's printed on. Right now, I'm getting excellent results printing my art on Epson photo quality paper. The print quality and color replicate the original artwork. I use a backing for the printed work. I find acid free Bristol to offer a good, stable support for the photo paper. And, I use only an acid free adhesive to mount the art.

I recently shopped for artwork supplies. I was happy to see Strathmore offering acrylic and watercolor papers in the exact size for creating ACEO's art with matching envelopes. It shows the art world is starting to embrace the "collectability" of these miniature art forms. And, offering a time saver for the artist who would otherwise need to cut the papers to size.

ACEO's can be matted and framed. A 5 x 7 inch frame with a mat offers a beautiful display for the wall or desk. And, don't stop there because they can be arranged in as many ways as your imagination and decorative ideas will take you.

If you enjoy collecting artworks but your budget is limited, ACEO's offer an affordable way to decorate just about any space.

ACEO's as well as original paintings and drawings are available for sale at very reasonable prices at both my Etsy shop and my website: Off The Cuff Art

PIF - Pay It Forward on Etsy

On a random selection, I'll be offering a PIF in my Etsy shop. What is a PIF? PIF = pay it forward which means, I list an item which I'm giving away in return, the person (if another Etsy shop owner) lists a PIF item in their shop. It's basically a karma key so to speak. I do a random act in turn the recipient does one too!

On the subject of good fortune, I only yesterday completed this miniature painting. It's 5 x 7 acrylic on heavy acid free acrylic paper. It's known as a hex sign and here is how Wikipedia defines it:

• Hex signs are a form of Pennsylvania Dutch folk art, related to Fraktur, found in the Fancy Dutch tradition in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Today some non-Pennsylvania Dutch people use the signs in a talismanic nature, although others see it as purely decorative, or "Chust for nice" in the local dialect.

Years ago, I made a trip to Lancaster, PA and became fascinated with the hex sign folklore and artwork. My family on my mother's side is of German descent so I guess it's no small wonder my interest in this form of art. Although I lived in an apartment at the time, I bought one for my home as a decorative piece.

It recently occurred to me to take the symbolism and create a work of art for wall space. Ordinarily, hex signs can be seen on the side of houses and barns. Why not bring the beauty and good fortune these hex signs represent in the form of artwork inside of our homes.

BOGO at my Etsy Shop

Good Morning, Henrietta - ACEO Art Card

4th of July sale special at my Etsy shop only. BOGO - buy any aceo art card and receive any aceo art card print free.

Wrong Direction - Artwork on Paper at Barrett Art Center

Wrong Direction is an artwork on paper created with colored pencils on bristol. It is a social/political piece reflecting my thoughts on the current state we find ourselves in the United States.

It is on display as part of the Best of Barrett Art Center show. The Barrett Art Center is located in Poughkeepsie, NY. The show runs from June 14th - July 3rd.

The original work is 11 x 17 inches and is framed and matted to 16 x 20 inches. The price with the frame is $250.00 at the Barrett Art Center.

YARK Sale on Etsy

For a limited time - June 11th - 20th, prices are slashed on select ACEO art cards and decorative tins. Stop by my etsy store to purchase original and high quality miniature art cards at low prices.

Endangered Species Artwork

I'm working on a new art series on endangered species. The Giant Panda shown here is an ACEO art card (2.5 x 3.5 inches) and done in acrylic. It's ready for framing and/or gift giving. Right now it's available on Ebay with a starting bid of only $2.99 Or, you can buy it directly from my Etsy shop for only $15.00 plus shipping. Either way, you're getting a great piece of art for a fraction of the cost. These miniature artworks make great decorative accents for any space.